Public Policy Intern

Are you interested in how public policy, government decision-making, and aerospace intersect? AIAA, the world's largest aerospace professional society, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Public Policy Intern to support our policy and advocacy efforts.

About the role

This part-time, temporary internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in federal public policy, congressional affairs, and government relations within a professional association setting. You'll work closely with the Director of Public Policy & Government Relations to monitor legislative and regulatory activity, prepare briefing materials, and support engagement with policymakers, members, and volunteers. This internship is ideal for undergraduate or graduate students with strong research and writing skills who are interested in public policy, government relations, or the aerospace and defense policy landscape.

This internship will primarily be located at the AIAA office(s) in Reston, VA and Washington, D.C. Candidates must reside in the DMV area. Housing and transportation will not be provided.

Responsibilities

• Attend and summarize congressional hearings, executive branch briefings, think tank webinars, and defense-industry events
• Research and track legislation from key congressional committees, including Appropriations, Armed Services, Science, and Foreign Relations
• Draft legislative and policy synopses for internal staff, volunteer leaders, and other audiences
• Prepare background and briefing materials for AIAA executives and volunteer leaders, including biographies, agendas, and talking points
• Research and fact-check policy papers for accuracy and clarity
• Update and maintain AIAA state fact sheets
• Assist with scheduling and preparation for Capitol Hill meetings and Public Policy Committee activities
• Support government relations initiatives, events, and special projects as assigned

Schedule

Approximately three days per week for a duration of 10 weeks (dates to be determined). Work environment is hybrid.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree or higher in Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Basic understanding of the U.S. legislative process
• Strong analytical, research, writing, and communication skills
• Outgoing, professional, and comfortable interacting with a variety of stakeholders
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently

About AIAA

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is the world's largest aerospace technical society, uniting nearly 30,000 members and 100 corporate members across 91 countries. AIAA drives innovation and collaboration in aviation, space, and defense by fostering connections between industry, academia, and government. To learn more, visit www.aiaa.org.